Chris Cameron, Executive Director
ccameron@handsonneworleans.org
Chris Cameron joined HandsOn New Orleans in 2012 as Executive Director. Combining core strengths in senior leadership, significant revenue generation, strategic planning and team and program development, Chris has transformed the organization. HandsOn completes 40+ community service projects each year by recruiting 5,000+ volunteers to serve low income residents. In this position, he has the privilege to work with community organizers, civic and corporate leaders as well as elected officials to address root causes of social injustice and postive pathways to vibrant neighborhoods.
He currently serves as an Affiliate Assembly member for the Points of Light Global Network and as a Board member on the state-wide Louisiana Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (LAVOAD).
Prior to joining the organization, Chris spent 19 years in higher education student affairs administration at Loyola University New Orleans and Dillard University in roles ranging from Greek Life advisor, director of student activities and co-curricular programs and Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs.
Chris received his B.A. in international relations and foreign affairs from the University of Virginia, and his Master of Education from University of South Carolina.
jillian edwards, Assistant Director of Social Impact
jedwards@handsonneworleans.org
Jillian Edwards is originally from Chattanooga Tennessee, graduating from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga with a degree in Public Administration and Nonprofit Management.
Jillian is a passionate advocate for social justice with over a decade of experience in nonprofit work, focusing on a variety of missions including gender equality, education, access to birth control, and philanthropy. With a background in gender studies and community organizing, Jillian has dedicated her career to amplifying marginalized voices and encouraging authentic representation.
Before joining HandsOn, Jillian served as a New Orleans City Year Americorps member, then lead teacher where she successfully launched initiatives aimed at supporting edible gardening and raising awareness around food insecurity in New Orleans East. Her work was recognized with several awards, including the Ralph Anderson Public Service Award.
Jillian believes that true equity is achieved through education and collaboration. The focus of her service is to create partnerships with local organizations, schools, and community groups to promote awareness and foster a justice oriented environment for all.
Outside of work, Jillian enjoys outdoor activities, volunteering, and catching the Louisiana Symphony Orchestra. She lives in New Orleans with her husband and their flock of chickens.
Kristin hartlage, assistant director of programs
jhartlage@handsonneworleans.org
Kristin graduated Endicott College with a BFA in graphic design and studio art. After graduation they moved down to New Orleans in 2018 and started their construction journey at SBP as an Americorps member. Next, they continued on to Habitat for Humanity building new houses for the community. After Hurricane Ida they switched gears and helped with the disaster recovery efforts for two years, before starting a queer handy person business with a friend to help local queers do home repairs and renovations. Kristin now joins Hands On as the Assistant Director of Programs, and is excited to continue to serve the community. Outside of work Kristin enjoys playing sports, painting, and walking the bayou.